ENERGY and Climate Change Secretary Chris Huhne visited Sheffield to endorse its ambition to be the UK’s first ‘local energy city’.

The council is working with energy company E.ON on an initiative that aims to see Sheffield producing enough renewable energy to become self-sufficient within ten years, eventually selling excess energy back into the national grid.

The drive will aim to reduce reliance on traditional fuels such as coal and oil and encourage residents to reduce their energy consumption, lowering their bills in the process.

Mr Huhne said: “Sheffield and E.ON’s exciting plans show how low-carbon energy can be made to work for local communities as well as help Britain’s efforts to get off the oil hook and I’m pleased to be able to back their plans.

“The work that the University of Sheffield and the council are doing on low-carbon energy and climate change is setting the pace for other towns and cities across the country.

“I wish Sheffield all the best in its quest to become the UK’s first local energy city.”

On his visit last Thursday, the minister visited the university and the new Granville Road campus of Sheffield College, which was designed with strong environmental features, including wind turbines.